Kenya is one of the most welcoming countries in Africa. The warm hospitality of the Kenyan people, from the vibrant Maasai and Samburu communities to the coastal Swahili culture, ensures that your children are always treated with kindness and curiosity. Kenya is widely regarded as the birthplace of the safari, where the concept of wildlife exploration as we know it today was born. The word “safari” itself comes from the Swahili language, meaning “journey,” and no other destination captures the spirit of adventure quite like Kenya.

SAFARI

Masai Mara National Reserve: Known for the Great Migration and its large predator populations, it offers child-friendly lodges and exciting game drives where families can witness lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo. Many lodges cater specifically to families, with guides offering interactive wildlife education for kids.

Laikipia and Lewa: Laikipia and Lewa are home to private conservancies offering activities outside the confines of the safari vehicle. Older children and teens can join horseback rides through the bush, getting close to wildlife like giraffes, zebras, and antelopes while riding alongside experienced Maasai or Samburu guides. You can fly camp, fish and enjoy bush breakfasts after morning hikes.

Walking Safaris: If your family loves being active, Samburu National Reserve and Ol Pejeta Conservancy are excellent for guided walking safaris. Walk with expert guides through the bush, learning to track animals, spot birds, and discover plants used for medicinal purposes by local tribes. Walking safaris offer a slower-paced yet thrilling way to experience the wilderness.

Mobile Tented Safaris: For families wanting a deeper, more immersive safari experience, mobile tented safaris are ideal. These safaris allow you to camp in remote areas, moving from one spot to another as the wildlife migrates. Private mobile camps, especially in areas like Nairobi National Park or Tsavo, provide the flexibility to create personalized safari itineraries, moving with the rhythm of the wild.

What makes Kenya’s safaris particularly special is the deep connection between the land, its people, and the animals. Many of Kenya’s most renowned lodges and camps are closely tied to local communities, providing families with the chance to meet the Maasai or Samburu tribes and learn about their traditions.

BEACH

Diani Beach is a picture-perfect destination known for its white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and swaying palm trees. It’s ideal for families looking for both relaxation and adventure. Diani has plenty of activities for adventurous families, kite surfing, snorkeling trips and tennis.

Further north, Watamu is known for its pristine beaches and vibrant marine life. There are fewer watersports than Diani beach, but you can enjoy glass bottom boats and kitesurfing.

Lamu Island in the far north is a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its rich Swahili culture, beautiful beaches, and relaxed atmosphere. The narrow, winding streets of Lamu Town are filled with centuries-old stone buildings, intricately carved wooden doors, and bustling markets. Here, life moves at a slower pace, with donkeys serving as the main mode of transport and traditional dhows sailing the turquoise waters of the Indian Ocean. Whether wandering the historic streets or setting sail on a traditional dhow, Lamu Island offers a truly unique family adventure.